SKUKUZA – Various rhino poachers entered the Kruger National Park (KNP) this weekend, thinking that poaching would be the proverbial walk in the park since it was full moon. However, they were rudely surprised by SANParks rangers who managed to arrest no less than six of them.
• On Sunday rangers stationed at Stolsnek came across a group of five suspected rhino poachers. Two of them were apprehended with the help of SANParks’ airwing and K9 units. The hunt is still on for the remaining three suspects who managed to escape.
• On Saturday Tshokwane rangers spotted two poachers. One suspect was taken into custody and a .375 hunting rifle, ammunition and poaching equipment were recovered. The second one managed to escape back to Mozambique.
• On Friday rangers of the Kingfisherspruit area came across two poachers, leading to the arrest of one of the armed suspects. A .458 rifle, silencer, ammunition and poaching equipment were recovered. The second person managed to escape being nabbed.
• On Thursday rangers of Crocodile Bridge apprehended two suspected poachers while they were exiting the KNP. The two, believed to be Zimbabwean nationals, were taken into custody on the spot. A G3 military-type rifle, silencer and ammunition were recovered.
SANParks spokesman Mr Rey Thakhuli said the proactive actions of everyone involved had finally paid off and that the possibility of more arrests would not be ruled out as a follow-up investigation was underway. “This is a clear indication that resilience and patience pays off and we are grateful that no lives were lost during an encounter with these heavily armed suspected poachers.”
He said the anti-poaching units were ready for this coming long weekend with many deployments routes being plotted out, particularly in hot spots.
“We are not resting this coming weekend as we believe there are quite few incidents being planned. We will be ready and waiting for them. We would like to request the support and cooperation of all members of society in identifying and reporting suspicious behaviour that could lead to the apprehension and conviction of these criminals.”
